Police urge families to warn elderly about scams

Copenhagen West Police have charged five people in two separate cases of impersonation fraud targeting at least six elderly victims, the Danish broadcaster DR reports.

The force is urging relatives to speak with older family members about the scams, which often involve fraudsters posing as police, bank staff, or other officials to gain trust.

Mathias Nebel, a police superintendent and head of economic crime at the district, said experience shows elderly citizens may be more susceptible to the sophisticated and cynical tactics used by criminals.

“We believe family can be a strong line of defence against this,” Nebel said.

He advised maintaining a natural scepticism, asking for verifiable details, and hanging up if in doubt. Those unsure should contact a trusted family member to help confirm whether a call from a bank or police is legitimate.